New Delhi: The United States observes Women's Equality Day on August 26 to mark the adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment (also known as Amendment XIX) to the United States Constitution in 1920. This amendment forbids the states and the federal government from denying citizens of the United States the right to vote on the basis of gender.
Women's Equality Day 2023: History
The date to celebrate Women's Equality Day was chosen as a way to remember the day in 1920 when Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby officially gave American women the right to vote. Congresswoman Bella Abzug of New York introduced a resolution to declare August 26 as Women's Equality Day in 1971, following the 1970 statewide Women's Strike for Equality, and again in 1973, as the fight over the Equal Rights Amendment raged on.
Women's Equality Day 2023: Significance
Every year, Women's Equality Day is observed to recognize the achievements made by women. The day also serves to highlight the steps taken in the direction of achieving gender equality. The ability of women to vote on this day signified a new beginning for them, as well as new prospects and a step toward obtaining equal rights in society. The day offers a chance to evaluate the achievements, increase awareness of the remaining gender gaps, and promote continued efforts to combat gender-based discrimination and guarantee equal opportunities for women in politics, business, and other fields of endeavor. It acts as a call to action for people and groups to actively support gender equality and seek to make the world more welcoming and equitable for everyone.
Women's Equality Day 2023: Theme
The theme chosen for Women's Equality Day this year is #Embrace Equity. This theme remains integral to the strategic plan from 2021 to 2026. It underscores the importance of attaining gender equality, which is not only crucial for economic advancement but also a fundamental aspect of basic human rights.